Modem vs router: what’s the difference?

A modem is what brings the internet into your home. It takes the signal from your broadband provider and translates it into something your devices can understand. No modem, no internet connection.

Different broadband types use different modems. With cable broadband, your modem connects via a coaxial cable (similar to a TV cable). With full fibre, you’ll typically have an ONT (Optical Network Terminal), designed to handle ultra-fast fibre-optic signals.

Most modems include a port to connect to your broadband line and another to link up with a router or a single device. Some also come with a built-in router, meaning one device can both connect you to the internet and share it around your home.

A router takes your internet connection and shares it with all your devices. It distributes the signal from your modem to your phones, laptops, tablets and more, either over WiFi or through Ethernet cables.

It’s what makes modern connected homes possible. Without a router, you’d be limited to just one device online at a time.

Most routers today are wireless, creating a WiFi network so you can connect without cables. They also include Ethernet ports if you want a faster, more stable wired connection. And for larger homes, a mesh WiFi system can help spread strong, reliable signal into every room.

Think of it like this:

• A modem brings the internet into your home

• A router shares that connection with your devices

You need both to get the best experience. With just a modem, you’d only be able to connect one device, and there’d be no WiFi.

Routers also add an important layer of security. They help protect your home network with features like passwords, firewalls and parental controls, keeping your connection safer for everyone using it.

These days, most broadband providers combine both into one device. Our Hubs, for example, work as both a modem and a router, so you can get online and connect multiple devices straight out of the box.

If you’ve got a single box from your provider (hopefully us!) that connects to the internet and gives you WiFi, you’re using a combined modem-router. That’s what most homes have.

Not sure? Here’s how to check:

• If your device has a “modem mode” setting, it’s likely a combo device

• If it has one internet input and one output, it’s probably just a modem

• If it connects to another device and provides WiFi, it’s a router

Our broadband Hubs are a great example of this, bringing both modem and router technology together in one powerful device so you can get online quickly and connect all your devices without needing any extra kit. It’s an all-in-one solution designed to give you strong, reliable WiFi straight out of the box.

For most homes, a combined modem-router does the job perfectly. It’s simple, tidy and easy to set up - ideal if you just want reliable WiFi without the hassle.

But if you’re after more control or performance, a separate router can give you extra flexibility. You can choose a model that offers stronger coverage, faster speeds or advanced features.

It’s also worth considering if you’re planning to install a mesh WiFi system, as these often work best when connected directly to a modem.

With Virgin Media, you get more than just a connection - you get seriously fast, reliable broadband designed for busy homes. Our Hubs combine modem and router technology in one powerful device, making it easy to stream, scroll and stay connected.

With speeds of up to 1130mbps and beyond with our Gigabit packages, there’s plenty of power for the whole household. Explore our latest broadband deals and find the perfect package for your home.